On Friday, March 28, 2025, YAQU PACHA held its annual general meeting, to which both YAQU PACHA members and representatives of our partner organizations were invited to report on important conservation initiatives in Latin America that are supported—and in some cases also coordinated—by YAQU PACHA.
The first speaker, Dr. Thais Carneiro Rodrigues, reported on the rescue and rehabilitation of Francisca, a Franciscana dolphin calf(Pontoporia blainvillei), who is currently being cared for at r3 in Brazil. Dr. Magdalena Arias then provided insights into efforts to protect Lahille's bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops gephyreus) in Argentina. Dr. Enrique Sanjurjo from Pesca ABC concluded the presentations with a compelling overview of their work to introduce alternative fishing methods to protect the last remaining vaquitas (Phocoena sinus).
Dr. Lorenzo von Fersen then gave a comprehensive overview of YAQU PACHA's current projects throughout Latin America and presented some of our initiatives in Europe in the past year 2024.
In accordance with our statutes, the election of the board was due. Three members were confirmed in their positions and we are pleased to welcome a familiar face as our new secretary:
Stefan Wiessmeyer, a long-time friend of the organization, who previously served as 2nd chairman for many years.
The new Executive Board was unanimously elected as follows:
– Dr. Lorenzo von Fersen – First Chair
– Sandra Honigs – Second Chair
– Martina Hofer – Treasurer
– Stefan Wiessmeyer – Secretary
We would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to Henning Plückebaum, who has stepped down after an incredible 11 years as secretary. His commitment, reliability, and deep connection to YAQU PACHA's mission have had a lasting impact on our organization. Henning was a steady hand and a trusted voice on the board, and we are very grateful for everything he has done over the past ten years.
We are proud that 95% of all donations and financial contributions go directly to our species conservation projects, as all YAQU PACHA employees volunteer their time.
Our work is only possible thanks to your support. We invite you to become a member of YAQU PACHA and stay up to date on our projects and the current status of our work.
We would also like to take this opportunity to express our sincere thanks for the tremendous support our projects have received from: Nuremberg Zoo, Duisburg Zoo, Aquazoo Düsseldorf, Zoomarine Portugal, Rancho Texas, Heidelberg Zoo, Planète Sauvage, EAAM, and all other sponsors and supporters of our organization.